Types of Rocks: Sedimentary

What You'll Learn

Groundwater fills spaces between rocks and soil underground. Aquifers are underground layers of rock that hold and transmit water. Many communities depend on wells that tap into aquifers.

Key Words

condensation
precipitation

Materials Needed

thermometer
rain gauge
cotton balls
food coloring

Safety First

Keep small objects away from young children.
Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Dispose of materials properly after the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read about Earth's History and write down three key facts.

Step 2 — Do

Model plate tectonics using graham crackers on frosting. Push them together, pull them apart, and slide them past each other to show convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis? What would you change next time?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What are tectonic plates?